2. Use paint or an indelible marker to put the vehicle identification number (VIN) under the engine hood and trunk lid and on the battery. This number is usually found on the dashboard on the driver’s side of the car.

3. If you have to leave personal property in your car, leave it in the trunk.

4. Keep your car in a garage and lock the garage door.

5. Use a security device like a steering wheel lock or a gear shift column lock.

If your car is stolen, have the following information ready to give to the police:

1. The year, make, model and color of the car.

2. The approximate time the car was stolen.

3. A description of anyone you may have seen loitering around your car before it was stolen.